Lakeside HR Group Honored with “In the Lead: Best Women-Owned Businesses” Award

Women-Owned HR Consulting & Recruiting

We are thrilled to announce that Lakeside HR Group has been recognized as one of Finance & Commerce’s “In the Lead: Best Women-Owned Businesses,” an award celebrating Minnesota’s top women-led companies.

This award honors outstanding women-owned businesses based on several key factors, including:

• Revenue and/or employee growth
• Efforts to empower other women
• Success in traditionally male-dominated industries
• Overall business success and reputation

Founded by Kristin Nordling in 2021, Lakeside HR Group has grown significantly, now boasting a team of 18 employees, 17 of whom are women. Over the past three years, the company has expanded into two distinct divisions. Kristin attributes much of this success to her team’s commitment to the company’s core values of being genuine, curious, scrappy, and value-driven, always working in trusted partnership with our clients.

As part of the award submission process, Kristin was asked to reflect on her journey as a woman business owner. Below are her insights:

What does it mean to you to be a women-owned business?

“Being a woman-owned business is a big source of pride and motivation for me. It allows me to bring a unique perspective on how to support our clients, ensuring that their needs are met with empathy and innovation. As a mom of adult sons, I take immense pride in demonstrating to them that their mom is a strong, independent business owner, capable of achieving significant growth and success. This journey has not only been about personal achievement but also about serving, supporting, and celebrating other women business owners. I am committed to fostering a community where we uplift and inspire each other to reach new heights.”

What challenges have you faced as a women-owned business?

“While generally positive, I sometimes struggle with imposter syndrome. These self-doubts can be challenging, but I surround myself with supportive, trustworthy people. Like many entrepreneurs, I recognize that this journey can be lonely, and finding a reliable support system is crucial for overcoming obstacles and maintaining resilience. I am resourceful and have leaned into many great resources, including networking groups and mentors who have been gracious with their time and knowledge.”

How do you support women in your business and community?

• Coalition 9 – Cohort Member and Sponsor
• Entrepreneurs Organization – Member
• MSPBJ Bizwomen Leadership Council – Member
• TeamWomenMN – Past Board Member / Current Mentor (2013 – present)
• Power of 100 Prior Lake – Women’s charitable giving group (2019 – 2023)
• NAWBO – Member since 2022
• MNCAPS – Student mentor and high school presenter (2018 – present)
• Menttium – Professional mentor (2021 – present)
• Ready. Set. Pivot – Co-Founder & Former Advisor

What recent accomplishments are you most proud of?

“In the past three years, I have experienced numerous ‘pinch me’ moments. Building Lakeside HR Group from the ground up and cultivating a team that is so deeply aligned with our mission, vision, and values has been incredibly rewarding. Most importantly, our team was honored with the MSPBJ Best Place to Work award in 2024.”

Read more about our Best Place to Work recognition here.

“Recently, I completed the Babson College, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program Certification in May 2024.”

Support Women-Owned Business

Congratulations to all the nominees in this year’s Finance & Commerce Best Women-Owned Business Awards! Check out the full list and consider supporting these exceptional businesses.